The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari has appealed for large-scale investment in mechanized farming.
Kyari, speaking at an event organized by the Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI), Afreximbank, and Autodex Nigeria Limited, highlighted agriculture’s vital role in Nigeria’s economy and the people’s well-being.
He noted that such investments would expand the local market and create strong agribusiness linkages between farmers and investors.
Represented by the Director of Agribusiness and Market Development at FMAFS, Adegbenro Adebiyi, the minister pledged a level playing field for private investors.
He said, “It is heart-warming that agriculture is fast becoming the buzz across trade and investment circles, particularly in the face of perennially dwindling oil prices and the FG’s desire to diversify the economy to boost productivity and the nation’s revenue base.
“The current policy on agriculture is to have the private sector in the driver’s seat, while the government provides an enabling environment to make agriculture a business and an investment haven, rather than a development program as in the past.
“We will not relent in our efforts to create strong agribusiness linkages between farmers and processors, increase agricultural value addition, reduce post-harvest losses, and achieve food security and wealth creation.”
ACCI President Emeka Obegolu highlighted the expo’s potential to stimulate interest in agricultural innovation and strengthen partnerships, particularly between Nigeria and China.
“Agriculture is the heartbeat of our nation, providing livelihoods to millions, sustaining communities, and bolstering our economy. However, in today’s rapidly changing world, the sector faces challenges, from climate change and financing issues to fluctuating markets and the need for modern infrastructure and technology,” he stated.